Nakuru — Church leaders and members of the business community in Nakuru have issued a strong warning to the youth against being exploited to cause chaos during the forthcoming electioneering period.
The leaders expressed concern that while many young people are pushing for change in the country, a section is being manipulated and paid to fuel violence, undermining democratic processes.
Speaking at Remnants Ministries International Church in Free Area after a peace march along Oginga Odinga Road, the leaders emphasized the need for calm and tolerance.
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They noted that Nakuru, often described as Kenya's political heartbeat and a symbol of coexistence, should set the pace for peaceful campaigns.
Bishop Sammy Gitonga cautioned politicians against using inflammatory rhetoric, warning that such language could incite anger and trigger conflict.
"Leaders have to present themselves in diplomacy, in decorum and in ways that truly represent who they say they are," he said.
Gitonga urged political leaders to avoid divisive and harmful language, questioning the legacy they intend to leave behind.
"What moral legacy do these politicians want to leave? What are they showing their successors?" he posed.
He further challenged religious leaders to take a more active role in shaping ethical leadership, stressing that leadership should go beyond the pursuit of power to include service and inspiration.
Gitonga outlined different levels of leadership, distinguishing between politics as a contest for power and leadership as a tool for empowering society.
He added that governance requires sound policy formulation and implementation, while higher levels of leadership demand moral and ethical guidance.
Community leader Lucy Macharia echoed the call for restraint, urging politicians to avoid public insults that could breed hatred among communities.
She encouraged voters to elect visionary leaders who prioritize vulnerable groups, including widows, orphans, persons living with disabilities, and single mothers.
Businesswoman Roseline Chemutai raised concerns over insecurity in Nakuru's central business district, calling on leaders to support security agencies in combating crime.
She also urged young people to actively participate in the electoral process.
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"Registering as voters is a great move... however, the youth must ensure they use their cards when the general elections come," she said, referencing the ongoing Niko Kadi voter registration drive.
The leaders collectively warned that exploiting youth for political violence not only endangers lives but also undermines the integrity of elections.
They called for a united effort among politicians, religious institutions, and the public to safeguard peace and uphold democratic values ahead of the polls.
